Low scores on a simple balance, walking and chair-stand test tracked higher dementia risk over 8.7 years

Researchers used data from the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing on 4,927 adults aged 60 and older who did not have dementia in 2012 to 2013. Baseline SPPB scores, which combine balance, walking speed and repeated chair stands, were grouped as high (10 to 12), moderate (7 to 9), low (4 to 6) and very low (0 to 3).

What they found

Over a median follow-up of 8.7 years, 252 participants (5.1%) developed dementia. Compared with high physical performance, low performance was linked to a hazard ratio of 1.71 (95% CI 1.11 to 2.62) and very low performance to 2.45 (95% CI 1.54 to 3.89), after adjustment for demographics, health behaviors and health status. Results held after excluding dementia diagnosed within the first two years.

The nuance

This is an observational study, so it shows association, not cause. Among men and adults 80 and older, only very low SPPB scores were significantly linked to dementia. The authors note that intervention trials are needed to learn whether improving physical performance lowers dementia risk.

Youthful take

Strength, balance and walking speed are vital signs for healthspan. Ask your clinician to measure them, and treat a declining score as a reason to start or adjust a supervised training plan.